“Blessed Be, Grandmother, I_____ stand here in your dimming light this eve that your deep mysteries might be revealed to me and that you might bless my work”. ~McCoy p. 83.
The waning moon, a crone ritual, and the altar is set with dark objects to reinforce intent. Although rarely treated as a time to present spells and magick of hope or wanting, the declining moon’s energy is described as working in darkness. Reverse the spell one would conduct in a waxing moon, focusing on removing rather than adding wants or needs. It is a time for guided meditation, group story-telling, dances in counterclockwise direction, all to suit this uncommon conjuring time, the waning moon.
A heavily laden reference book, ’ Magick and Rituals…’ can be used chapter to chapter or flip to Appendix B and find your favorite major moon festival and holiday. Or check out, ‘Full Moon Magick’, chapter 10, and see the ‘Traditional Anointing Points on the Body’ in a well constructed chart.
“Silver Mother of the night,
Bless my feet that they may always
Walk securely on your sacred path”. ~McCoy p. 126.
Enticing is the section on Non-Western and Seasonal Full Moon festivals. The ‘…spark of interest to fuel the flame…’, even in those ritual where the gods and goddesses that are unfamiliar, a conjurer can join in even the most solemn ritual, (Wheel of the year), or the most joyous of occasions, (Coming of Age’). There is even a guide for Rune interpretation.
Pictures are hand sketched and there are even recipes. One such recipe is for ‘Short Cut Mead’, using raw honey, lemon juice and Everclear alcohol,( and other ingredients); this ritual toasting drink is perfect for recognizing the most stout of gods and goddesses.
Esbats can be serious, as in a waning ritual or full of hope and dreams, as those in a full moon celebration. Edain McCoy covers all the bases and answers many questions without going into flowery detail. This is a down-to-earth book that can be used again and again because the information is solid and practical.
Ivy Lieberman